No one knows the ins and outs of a city quite like a local, be it the food, art, or nightlife. With Architectural Adventures, a travel program recently launched by the American Institute of Architects, travelers with a passion for culture, history, and particularly architecture can embark on trips expertly curated by those who know the cityscape best: local architects. The first trip, Havana Revealedkicking off in Cuba on March 10features a walking tour through the vibrant streets of Old Havana, a closer look at a 16th-century stone fortress, and a visit to a historic architecture restoration factory. Other trips for 2017 include tours of Chicago, Northern Italy, and China. AD spoke with Luke Diorio, a managing director at AIA, on what travelers can look forward to when booking with Architectural Adventures.

Architectural Digest: How did the concept for Architectural Adventures develop?

Luke Diorio: For years the AIA has led trips for its members to various parts of the world to examine and promote knowledge of design issues and to encourage a global dialogue on the art of building and design. Architectural Adventures provides these travelers distinctive and exclusive opportunities to engage with the past, present, and future of building and design in the worlds greatest sites and cities through a full series of immersive, architecture-centered travel experiences featuring knowledgeable and engaging experts. This means both a world-class vacation and a unique opportunity to learn about the built environment in breathtaking settings around the globe.

AD: Who are you hoping will travel with Architectural Adventures?

LD: Architectural Adventures is a special program of the American Institute of Architects, and while we hope that many of our 90,000-plus members choose to travel with our program, it is not just for our members. The program is open to anyoneespecially those who are architecture enthusiasts and world travelers.

The boldly colored buildings in Cuba's Old Havana.

AD: How were the destinations and architectural sites chosen?

LD: First and foremost, we started by considering global destinations that would offer a rich architectural experience for our travelers. We then surveyed prospective travelers to gain an understanding of how this matched their interests. Once our destinations were selected and an expert was identified, the team worked with the expert, the tour operator, and often the local AIA chapter to develop the trip itinerary and details.

The canals of Northern Italy will eventually be included on the AIA-sponsored tours.

AD: What do you hope for travelers to take away from their trip with Architectural Adventures?

LD: It is our hope that travelers experience something unique at each of our destinations, providing a deeper appreciation of the culture, history, and architectureespecially through special excursions and exclusive behind-the-scenes access to popular sites. Our program manages every detail of the trip, allowing travelers to focus on the culture and architecture in a small group atmosphere with like-minded travelers.

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Now You Can Travel the World with an Architect as Your Guide - Architectural Digest